Speechify Review: The Perfect Text-To-Speech Tool?

Reading long texts can be exhausting. If you’re studying, working, or just trying to get through emails, staring at a screen for hours isn’t exactly fun. That’s where Speechify comes in. It’s an AI text-to-speech tool that turns written words into natural-sounding audio. 

If you want to multitask, improve productivity, or need an accessibility tool, Speechify might be the solution. In this Speechify review, you will find the features and benefits this tool offers. You will also find some downsides to this tool and overall discover how it meets up to expectations in real-world uses. 

TL;DR: 

• Speechify is a feature-rich text-to-speech tool that converts written content into high-quality, human-like audio. That includes elements of human speech like appropriate pauses and stress in sentences. 
• It supports multiple languages like French and Spanish and offers a variety of voices (like Mr Beast, Snoop Dog, the founder himself, Cliff). Speechify also works across different devices. 
• It is great for people with significant visual impairment and learning disabilities like ADHD and dyslexia. 

Fun fact: The founder started Speechify because he has Dyslexia and struggled with reading. 

• The tool struggles with complex texts like tables. 
• Some of its voices have a robotic undertone. 
• The tool may struggle to recognize handwritten text or unusual fonts.

Best For:

Speechify is useful for a wide range of people, but it’s especially beneficial for:

• Students: Struggling with reading long textbooks? Speechify reads study material aloud, making it easier to retain information. You can also adjust the speed for faster learning.

Also read: Top AI Tools for Students: Improve Your Learning

• Professionals: Need to review reports, emails, or documents while commuting? Speechify lets you listen to content on the go, save time, and increase efficiency.
• People with Dyslexia or ADHD: Reading can be challenging for individuals with dyslexia or attention difficulties. Speechify helps by reading text aloud and giving information in digestible bite-sized pieces.
• Multitaskers: Want to “read” while cooking, exercising, or driving? Speechify turns text into audio that lets you absorb information while doing other tasks.
• Content Consumers: If you love reading but don’t always have the time, this tool converts articles, PDFs, and books into audiobooks.

(Speechify Review) Alternative to:

1. NaturalReader

NaturalReader is a popular TTS tool fitted with high-quality voices. It offers offline access, unlike Speechify, which is great for users who don’t want to rely on an internet connection.

• Best for: People looking for offline functionality
• Key feature: OCR support for scanned documents, customizable playback
• Pricing: There’s a free version available and premium starts at $20.90/ month. 

2. Microsoft Edge Read Aloud

If you’re looking for a free, built-in option, Microsoft Edge offers a Read Aloud feature that reads web pages and PDFs.

• Best for: Users who need a basic, no-cost solution
• Key features: It is a free tool integrated with Edge browser
• Pricing: Free

3. Google Text-to-Speech

Google’s TTS engine works well for Android users. It integrates with apps like Google Play Books and accessibility tools.

• Best for: Android users who want a built-in option
• Key features: Free, supports multiple languages
• Pricing: Free

4. Amazon Polly

This is a cloud-based TTS service with lifelike AI generated voices. It’s great for businesses that need voiceovers for content.

• Best for: Developers and businesses
• Key features: API integration, advanced voice customization
• Pricing: Pay-as-you-go model

Speechify Review: Pricing

Note: 

• For price updates, check the Speechify website. 
• The free trial has limitations. Basic voices, slower speeds, and usage restrictions make the free plan less useful for anyone who needs advanced features.
• Some users have reported unexpected charges due to automatic renewal, and canceling can be tricky.

Speechify Review: Overview and Main Features

1. Natural-Sounding Voices

Speechify uses AI to generate human-like voices. Its voices have natural intonations and pauses, making them more pleasant to listen to. The premium version provides high-quality voices, including celebrity voices and multilingual options.

Note: 

The AI voices sometimes mispronounce names, technical terms, or uncommon words, which can be frustrating.

2. Multi-Device Sync

Users can start listening on one device and continue on another. Speechify syncs progress across all devices and allow seamless listening across all your devices. That includes your  smartphone, tablet, or desktop. 

3. Customizable Reading Speeds

Speechify allows you to alter the reading speed. This feature ranges from normal pace to 9x faster reading. This is useful for speed readers or professionals looking to go through large volumes of text quickly.

4. Supports Multiple Formats

It can read aloud various file types, including PDFs, Word documents, web articles, and emails. Users can upload files directly or use the Chrome extension to listen to online content.

Cons: 

• Documents with columns, tables, or heavy formatting may not be read properly. This could cause playback issues

5. OCR (Optical Character Recognition) Technology

Speechify’s OCR feature allows users to scan physical books or printed documents using their device’s camera. The app then converts the scanned text into speech, making it useful for students and professionals working with printed materials.

Note:

The tool may struggle to recognize handwritten text or unusual fonts, leading to errors in the scanned text.

6. Language and Accent Options

With over 30 languages available, Speechify caters to a global audience. Users can choose different accents to enhance their listening experience, making it ideal for language learners or those who prefer specific dialects.

7. Offline Listening

The premium version allows users to download audio files for offline playback. This feature is useful for people who want to listen to content while traveling or in areas with poor internet connectivity.

8. Chrome Extension

Speechify’s browser extension makes it easy to listen to web pages, articles, and Google Docs. With a simple click, users can convert online text into speech without switching applications.

9. Integration With Other Apps

Speechify integrates with various platforms, including Google Drive, Dropbox, and Evernote. This allows users to access and listen to saved documents without manually uploading files each time.

10. Background Playback

Users can listen to Speechify while using other apps. This feature is useful for multitasking, allowing users to take notes, browse the web, or complete other tasks while listening.

The Bottom Line

Speechify is a powerful text-to-speech tool that caters to students, professionals, and individuals with reading difficulties. With natural-sounding voices, multi-device sync, and support for various formats, it stands out as a versatile solution. While the free version is limited, the premium plan offers significant enhancements, making it a worthwhile investment for those who need a high-quality listening experience. If you’re looking for a reliable text-to-speech tool, Speechify is worth considering.

FAQS

1. Is Speechify Really Worth It?

Yes, if you need a high-quality text-to-speech tool. Speechify provides natural-sounding voices, multiple language options, and customizable speeds. It’s especially useful for students, professionals, and individuals with reading difficulties. The premium version offers enhanced features that justify the cost.

2. Can I Use Speechify Without Paying?

Yes, Speechify has a 3-day free trail period. However, it comes with limited voice options and slower reading speeds. The premium version unlocks high-quality voices, faster speeds, and offline listening.

3. How Much Does Speechify Cost?

Speechify offers a free plan with basic features. The premium plan costs $139 per year and includes high-quality voices, up to 9x reading speed, and unlimited listening. Enterprise pricing is available for teams and businesses.

4. How Does Speechify Work?

Speechify converts text into speech using AI-powered voices. Users can upload documents, scan printed text, or use the Chrome extension to listen to web content. It works across multiple devices and syncs progress for a seamless experience.